F.A.Q
FAQ – Backcountry & Slackcountry Guided Tours in Japan
General
What types of tours do you offer?
We offer:
- Slackcountry (lift-access off-piste) tours
- Backcountry touring
- Resort off-piste guiding
- Avalanche awareness training
- Multi-day camps and tours
- Private guided experiences
Tours operate across Nagano and Niigata, including:
- Shiga Kogen
- Nozawa Onsen
- Myoko Kogen
- Madarao & Tangram
- Lotte Arai
What is the difference between slackcountry and backcountry?
Slackcountry involves using lifts to access areas outside resort boundaries.
Backcountry touring involves hiking or skinning to access remote terrain beyond lift-accessed areas.
Do I need previous backcountry experience?
No. Many guests join with no prior backcountry experience.
Slackcountry tours are ideal for strong resort riders looking to safely explore beyond the resort.
Some advanced backcountry tours may require previous touring experience and appropriate fitness.
Are tours private or group tours?
We offer both private and small group tours.
Private tours provide maximum flexibility, while group tours are a great way to share the experience at a lower cost.
How long are the tours?
Half Day
Approximately 3 hours
Full Day
Approximately 5–6 hours plus a lunch break
Bookings & Payments
How do I book a tour?
Bookings can be made through our website contact form or booking system.
We strongly recommend booking early during peak season (January–February).
When is my booking confirmed?
Day Tours & Lessons
Bookings are confirmed once full payment is received.
Multi-Day Tours & Camps
Bookings are confirmed once the required deposit payment has been received.
Cancellation & Rescheduling
Day Tours, Lessons & Avalanche Training
Cancellation Fees
Cancellation Period | Fee |
More than 7 days before tour | ¥10,000 administration fee |
7 days to 48 hours before tour | 30% cancellation fee |
Less than 48 hours before tour | 50% cancellation fee |
Same day cancellation or no-show | 100% cancellation fee |
Day Tour Rescheduling
Reschedule Period | Fee |
More than 7 days before tour | ¥5,000 administration fee |
7 days to 48 hours before tour | ¥10,000 administration fee |
Less than 48 hours before tour | Rescheduling unavailable |
All rescheduling requests are subject to availability.
Multi-Day Tours & Camps Cancellation Policy
Deposit
The 20% deposit is non-refundable.
Balance Refunds
Cancellation Period | Refund |
More than 120 days before departure | Remaining balance refunded minus deposit |
60–120 days before departure | Up to 50% of remaining balance refunded |
Less than 60 days before departure | Non-refundable |
Can tours be cancelled due to weather?
Yes. Safety always comes first.
If First Tracks Japan cancels a tour due to unsafe conditions or operational issues, guests may be offered:
- A full refund
- Rescheduling
- Alternative tour options
depending on the situation.
Lift Passes
Is a lift pass included?
No. Lift passes are not included unless specifically stated.
Guests should budget approximately ¥7,500–9,000 per riding day depending on resort selection.
What lift pass should I buy?
We will recommend the correct lift pass depending on the planned location and conditions.
Rental Equipment
Is avalanche safety equipment required?
Yes.
Avalanche transceiver (beacon), probe, and shovel are mandatory for all slackcountry and backcountry tours.
Is avalanche gear included?
Avalanche safety equipment rental is available for:
¥4,000 per day
Rental equipment may include:
- Backpack
- Avalanche transceiver
- Probe
- Shovel
Do you offer rental powder skis or snowboards?
Yes.
Powder snowboards are available for:
¥5,000 per day
Do I need touring equipment?
Touring equipment is required only for backcountry touring experiences.
Slackcountry tours do not require touring gear.
Safety & Requirements
Do I need insurance?
Yes.
Guests are strongly recommended to have travel insurance covering:
- Off-piste skiing/snowboarding
- Backcountry touring
- Medical treatment
- Rescue and evacuation
Backcountry rescue in Japan can be limited, delayed, and expensive.
What fitness level is required?
Guests should be comfortable riding powder snow and variable terrain.
Backcountry touring requires moderate fitness and the ability to hike uphill in winter conditions.
Will there be avalanche safety training?
Yes.
All backcountry and slackcountry tours include:
- Basic avalanche awareness
- Safety briefing
- Rescue equipment overview
More detailed avalanche education and rescue practice may also be included depending on the tour type and conditions.
Minimum Age
The minimum recommended age for private backcountry and slackcountry tours is:
12 years old
Guests under 18 require parental or guardian consent.
Can the guide change or end the tour?
Yes.
All guide and safety decisions are final.
This may include:
- Route changes
- Terrain changes
- Early termination
- Resort changes
- Cancellation due to safety concerns
These decisions are made in the interest of participant safety.
